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Celebrating our 11th year!

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voicemagazineforwomen.com • jancarolpublishing.com

s we prepare for the most festive time of the year, Christmas and the New Year, it is the perfect time to let others know that they have made a difference in your life throughout the year! Voice Magazine and Jan-Carol Publishing want all of you to know that you have made a positive difference throughout the year for us and others!

We are thankful for all our readers, our loyal fans, our faithful supporters and our advertisers. Without you, we would not be here. Thank you for your support of the businesses supporting us, our authors, for buying local and buying JCP books. Each one of you makes a positive difference in so many ways and in so many lives! Thank you again and again! This year has been because of you!

As we plan for 2016, we want another year about you! We are planning events, expanding our footprint and looking to have new beginnings. However, before we jump into 2016 events, please join us for an event that we are very happy to be a part of—The Art D’Vine Tour sponsored by the Arts and Entertainment District of Historic Bristol, VA/TN and by Believe in Bristol on the evening of Friday, December 4. Our ‘Spirit of the Season’ shopping event, supporting the Bristol Public Library, is on the same evening and we are joining in on the fun. Please show your support to the local community. There will free gifts and giveaways through the evening. On Saturday, December 5, the Bristol Public Library and Voice Magazine will host local authors, book signings and workshops. See our ad on page 26 for more info. Saturday is free to attend!

Remember that books are among the best sources of inspiration, and JCP wants to help you to embrace the season’s changes with a stimulating reading list. For younger readers and the young at heart, JCP features great books for adults, children and teens. From fairy tales to romance to self-help to historical fiction, JCP’s titles have something for everyone.

Our 2015 year has meant “change” to JCP. In looking ahead, we see additional changes for our 2016. Growth for any small business is important and sometimes with that growth comes “growing pains.” We ask for you continued support. We are always open to suggestions and local informational articles. Make 2016 about you! Also, keep in mind, we are adding members to our sales team. If interested, please email publisher@jancarolpublihsing.com or call the office, 423.926.9983.

Remember to check out JCP’s websites—voicemagazineforwomen.com and jancarolpublishing.com. To buy our books, or retail JCP books in your business and/or have a book signing, please call 423.926.9983 for information. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

PUBLISHER Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc PO Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605

A

Verse of the month: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 KJV Thought of the month: “We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.” Edith Lovejoy Pierce From all of us to all of you, we pray God’s blessings upon you and your family during this holiday season! Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Happy Holidays!

Janie C. Jessee, Editor

4 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Serving Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia!

EDITOR Janie C Jessee, 423-502-6246 editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com office@voicemagazineforwomen.com publisher@jancarolpublishing.com DECEMBER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS April Hensley Crystal Robertson Pam Blair Ken Heath Kelly McFadden Ronda Addy Tresa Erickson Doris A. Black Craig W. Armstrong ADVERTISING SALES Jamie Bailey - Account Executive 423-384-8402 jamie@voicemagazineforwomen.com OFFICE Jordan Mallory - Office Assistant office@jancarolpublishing.com Office Phone/Fax: 423-926-9983 GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com MARKETING Tammy Robinson Smith - JCP Director of Communications communications@jancarolpublishing.com DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Gary Davis Staff JCP Internships Available PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 12, Issue 12) While every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of the published material, Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. / Voice Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions or facts provided by its authors, advertisers or agencies. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Agencies, Advertisers and other contributors will indemnify and hold the publisher harmless for any loss or expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism and/or copyright infringement. The views expressed in Voice Magazine for Women are not necessarily those of the publisher. © 2015 EDITORIAL MISSION: Voice Magazine for Women wants to provide a useful and complete reliable source of information for women and their families. We seek to celebrate women’s successes, and support their growth by defining and recognizing their needs and providing a concentration of resources for them. We want to be that “link” to all women.

find us:

www.voicemagazineforwomen.com /voicemagazineforwomen @VoiceMagazineTN

contents

December 2015 | Volume 12 | Issue 12

10

Rules for Leggings

Holiday Wine Time

Fur in Fashion

Jewelry Reference for Last Minute Shoppers

6

Jan Howery 7

Outdoor Christmas Decorating 9

16 R R OUEBSEEL

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CA RR

OL L C. JONE

$14.

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HOAGLA

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HOAGLAND LINDA HUDSON

MARTHA JANE ORLANDO

December Hot Hunk Hunt!

The November “Hot Hunk” was Jake Gyllenhaal on page 30.

Liam Hemsworth

Congratulations to: Cassandra Johnson Glade Spring, VA

as the winner in the November Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

Gifts for Gardeners April Hensley 14

A

CARR Novel by OLL C . JONE S

COVE

Each month Voice will “hide” a picture of a “Hot Hunk.” If you find him, fill out this form, mail it in, and you could win LUNCH FOR 2 at a select local restaurant or tickets to Speedway in Lights at the Bristol Motor Speedway.

Christmas Tree Safety

Tresa Erickson 15

COPY

COPYRIGHT 2015 AUTHOR PHOTO AND FRONT COVER PHOTO: DANNY ORLANDO COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

Ronda Addy 12

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U.S.

95 • COPY CAN RIGH $16.

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Martha Jane Orlando is passionate about writing and hopes you will be just as passionate about reading both The Glade Series and Adventures in The Glade. You can visit Martha Jane at her website gladetrilogy.wix.com/theglade or at facebook.com/nantahala55.

U.S. $13.95 • CAN $15.95

Quick & Easy Sweets

Holiday Traveling

Revelation on

REVELATION

HUDSON

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is County, and raise the setti directly desc d in THE ended ng for with his from pion the western this book wife North . He eerin The plot thickens when the Old ia, but Carolina EOnes realize evil Cousin Ronnie isregular basis. Mar they man presently lives g families AR Rebe of Hay Master age to in Mor GEtoLS wood plotting other lay hands on The Glade. Through their spying of the East l Rousers is ANways retreat to the Caro ristown, Tenn Carroll’s Fork. You essee REpresent the evidence to Davy’s his website at carro second lina high HE and reconnaissanceYW they can find novel and lands on lljones.w out ER efforts, a is eebly.com more abou family andEV Sheriff Peabody. But will that evidence be enough to t Carroll a sequel to his . and his S books SEorRIE keep Ronnie at bay, will the need for irrefutable proof force the

Old Ones to take the greatest risk of all?

3

R OUSE

WARD

— Glynn Young, author, Dancing Priest, A Light Shining, and Poetry at Work

Adventures in The Glade | Book 3

D & UP

Onwaradrd & Upw “Revelation may be the most action-packed entry in The Glade Series and Adventures in The Glade yet.

A romance, sorrow, a rafting trip gone awry, evil cousin Ronnie up to nefarious no-good, the Old Ones watching over Davy and his family— I couldn't stop turning the next page to find out what would happen next.”

22

s mystery novel im for her Deadly won accla Be Doggone land has works of Linda Hoag recent Snooping Can author of e the is also the a volume that includ Stalker. She gs along with , ked Road and Croo of short writin awards for her work a collection rous l nonfiction, has won nume Buck Award for Socia land Hoag S. st. of poems. for the Pearl Story Conte first place rson Short including n Authors ood Ande the Sherw Appalachia or email ent of the Change and ngels.com the presid ntly sanda curre sbook She is .linda her at www Guild. Visit oo.com. gland@yah her at lhhoa

M N.C readin 2015 . SOCIET EAST FOR g the nov enterta K Y OF HIS ined, the el, one TORIAN rea y have story in S been edu lizes that not the sen se form in cated. only hav The rea the min that, throug der bec e they been h reader d’s eye omes lost -friend due to ly text vivid des the cha in the , scenes racters cription begin to involve s of bea d, and daily life utiful scenery Rebel Rou , .” sers, the during sequel the Am to Master eric soldier of the who hail an Civil Wa East For r. strappi s from ng lad the wes It tells the com k, is a hist has to bea oric tern Nor hateful acts of th Car ing-of-age tale al fiction nov an antago r-up underAdventures olina high trials of el set of in The Glade his a youthfu| Book rom war. Wil nist nam lands. l Rebel and find At onc l he sur ed Bug antic longings e, it seem g, various vive the out. for the miller’ s, the war? Wh per at about sonal tragedie s daughter, Noted the the girl s, and western the ? Best “Carro North you pick terrible Carolin ll -up a cop a and reg Jones blends y unique writer Kathy ion story-te His boo al lifestyles Nanney to crea lling and k rem Ross say te a ind justice and ven s us how the superb, tho crafty writing s in her fore ught-pr transpo word, geance lines bet ovokin with historic rts us can blu wee n joy g novel, al bac compell r.

Rebel Rou facts ing stor k in time and As a good hist and sorrow y. Enjoy.” , good orical sers. teaches and evil novel us abo should , and ut our past wit , Rebel Rou CARROL sers hout sac rificing mountain L C. JONES a was born s and

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y ugh. Moll and thro s the through and keep country girl, age of 60 crocheted pson is a reaches the selling her when she r every year creates from yarn wanderer to Decembe ooder, ns and om April be a do-g she desig ls to out ange set n’t believes the . She does their spell that way. er under life just leans ms that her anyone who ed life with ged, l-influenc can be chan Molly’s ange whose opinions k shares those and with n angels bit. is just a little

Fiction

10

13

W Histo INNER OF rical th Fictio e Cl ark CAR Cox n Aw EARNS ROLL C. JON HIGH ard PRAISE ES’S MASTER “After for FRO OF THE

follow ine as we and genu in her life after twarming ose both hear a new purp life takes on an ward is toward Molly’s journey ing story n on her g the way, us an uplift and. Alon land gives her husb a time.” . Linda Hoag step at ngelic twist ng forward one er movi the Bord hope and of Crossing or tycka, Auth senia Rych

Christmas Dinner

Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone Number: Email:

HOT HUNK LOCATION:

Journeys of Women Art Show III Pam Blair 16

Gifts for Gardeners April Hensley 14

Holiday Traveling Tresa Erickson 15

Roasting Chestnuts Jordan Mallory 17

or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is December 20, 2015.

PLEASE, ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD As the selected winner, you must contact Voice Magazine for Women at 423-926-9983 within 90 days to claim and receive your prize. After 90 days, winning becomes null and void and the prize cannot be claimed.

Doris A. Black 19

Shop Local this Season Craig W. Armstrong 20

Jan-Carol Publishing New Releases and Book Signings 22

Holiday Gift Guide 24

Spirit of the Season Shopping Event 26

Keep your Pets Safe 27

Celebrating Made Simple Crystal Robertson 28

World Record Holder to Speak at YWCA Event 32

Reducing Stress 33

Give the Gift of Dark Chocolate 35

VoiceMALE Ken Heath 37

Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?

Mail this submission form to: Voice Magazine P.O. Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605

18

NOW HIRING!

Voice Magazine for Women is looking for a motivated Account Executive Consultant for Business to Business Print and Digital Advertising Sales in Southwest Virginia.

Includes areas of Wise County, Russell County, Abingdon, VA and surrounding areas. Bring your Social Skills, Communication Skills

and represent a product that every business loves! Well established with website and updated media package. A WIN-WIN for you and business owners. Training provided, salary options provided with commission, bonus and more. Call today (423-926-993) to schedule an interview or email publisher@ jancarolpublishing.com.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 5

Rules for Leggings

What Shoes Should You Wear With Leggings?

Leggings are fabulous with ballet flats, flat ankle boots, low-heeled boots and high-heeled boots with sturdy heels.

Tall women look hot in mid-calf leggings or in any kind of crops. If you’re tall, you will look great in leggings and ballet flats or flat boots or high-heeled boots. If you’re short, you can wear leggings with ballet flats. You just have to be super careful about keeping the proportions of your outfit right.

Cropped Leggings...How Long Should My Leggings Be? With boots: If you already own some cute cropped leggings and you’ve decided you don’t look great in cropped pants, you can wear your short leggings by tucking them into knee boots or over-the-knee boots.

With high-heeled boots: Any kind of boot will make your legs look longer, even if you’re short.

When you’re on vacation: Cropped leggings look good at the beach or on a cruise ship, when worn with flat sandals.

Tunic Tops Over Leggings If you are over 18 and you don’t model lingerie, you must wear your leggings with a top or tee that’s long enough to cover your booty. No exceptions, ladies.

What to Wear with Leggings • • • • • •

OUR ATTIC CONSIGNMENT

Long tunics: Your tunic tops should reach mid-thigh . . . if you plan on sitting down.

Flirty dresses and skirts: Wear your leggings as tights.

Big shirts: Your top must be long enough to fulfill the requirements.

Big shirts with belts.

Long, roomy sweaters.

Long, T-shirt tunic dresses: This may become your go-to casual look.

Clothes Not to Wear With Leggings The legging trend uses the silhouette of big over narrow. (Big top, narrow legs.) If you are wearing your leggings as pants, you cannot wear them with: • Any short top.

• Any tight-fitting top.

Apple Shaped Women In fall and winter, apple shapes should take advantage of their shapely legs by wearing their leggings under a long T-shirt, or T-shirt dress, and covering the whole outfit with a sweater coat or belted trench coat. If your trench is cute enough, you can wear that same outfit anywhere. However, you must wear leggings (or jeggings) that are heavy enough not to be confused with tights. Source: boomerinas.com Ask About Our Weekly Specials!

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ouratticconsignment.com Like us on Facebook: Our Attic & Hair Waves 6 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Fur in Fashion REAL OR REAL FAUX?

Johnson City’s Newest Boutique

Now Open!

By Jan Howery

W

ishing to find a fur coat under the Christmas tree this year? Don’t be disappointed if it a faux fur! Faux fur is the ‘must-have’ this season.

It used to be that faux meant less expensive and quality less than desirable, but not any longer.

Many retailers are announcing that they are offering faux fur. Faux fur is the new black for this holiday season, and may be accented with vegan leather. The trend is being fueled by the fact that faux fur and leather are nearly indistinguishable from the real thing nowadays.

Faux is gaining popularity in part because there have been advances in technology enabling designers to make better-looking fakes. In a still-shaky economy that has made Americans more frugal, faux also can be seen as a good way to be trendy without breaking the bank. And a movement toward socially conscious shopping makes some people feel better about faux purchases.

Faux Fur Vest from Abercrombie & Fitch

3119 Bristol Hwy | Johnson City, TN

(423) 263-0433

Find Y Perfe our Holid ct Outfitay !

Pelage Fleece Jacket Patagonia

Bertha Faux-Fur Throw Pillow from Kohl’s

528 E. Elk Ave. Elizabethton, TN

423.542.3080

Cathy Shoun, Owner Seamstress on site

Hours: Tues–Fri: 11–5 • Sat: 11–4

Faux Fur Jacket from Kenneth Cole New York voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 7

RECEIVE $400 OFF*

Select Stressless® recliners or $200 OFF any Stressless when you donate $50 to Salvation Army. *See your sales associate for complete details.

November 18 – January 18

Wedding and bridesmaid dresses priced up to 75% off retail value!

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New Affordable Couture

IMPACT SOMEONE ELSE’S WORLD WHEN YOU DONATE $50 TO SALVATION ARMY.

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101 W Main St. | Jonesborough, TN (423) 753-4648 | Order: (800) 611-MAUK www.mauks.com

s_burleson@ywcabristol.org Located inside YWCA Bristol 106 State Street | Bristol, TN 37620

NEW !

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8 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Outdoor Christmas Decorating C

hristmas yard decorations welcome others to your home by means of drawing the eye from the road to your doorstep. There are many Christmas yard decoration ideas to make this area a bright beautiful space. Decorate with lights, garland and bows to really attract attention from friends and neighbors this holiday season.

NEST

INTERIORS & GIFTS

Fun DIY Outdoor Christmas Decorating Ideas Placing various size balls of Christmas lights across the lawn is an innovative Christmas yard decoration idea everyone loves. By wrapping Christmas lights around chicken wire balls, you can create a whimsical scene in your yard. All you need for this DIY Christmas decoration is chicken wire, strings of LED mini lights and wire cutters.

Decorate an Outdoor Christmas Tree If your yard has evergreen trees, consider creating an outdoor Christmas tree. It will brighten up the entire yard. String mini lights throughout the branches, choosing a color theme based out your outdoor decorations. Be sure to string them among the interior branches instead of just draping them on the exterior branches to make the whole tree brighter and add ornaments to reflect light.

Decorate with Topiary Animals Lighted animals placed next to trees and nestled near bushes depict the warmth of nature during the holiday season. Create a group of elegant, grazing deer with these lighted creatures made of either grapevine or artificial greenery. Position them in a row to illustrate Santa’s reindeer team that pull his sled. Topiary animals are available in warm incandescent or LED light colors and in several differing heights so that they suit any area near your home. With deer that stand, graze, and lie down, you can also decorate throughout your yard with the animals to symbolize nature visiting your yard.

Stop in for unique holiday décor. ’Tis the season!

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Now Open!

Write Christmas Messages with Mini Lights Spelling out “Merry Christmas” in the center of your yard will make a statement, literally. Use black-out caps to make spaces between letters. Make the words as large or small as you like. Use contrasting lights with the other lights in the yard to make your message stand out more.

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Animated Motifs Another exciting Christmas yard decoration idea is an animated motif.

These motifs come in all shapes and sizes with various themes. For large yards, consider a motif such as elves stuffing gifts into Santa’s stocking.

With so many different motifs to choose from, there is sure to be one that will fit perfectly into your yard decorating style.

For more information visit www.christmaslightsetc.com.

4451 N. ROAN ST. | SUITE 203

JOHNSON CITY, TN

423.429.1913

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 9

Christmas Dinner

Baked Ham

Yield: Allow 1/3 pound per person

Ingredients one 10 to 15 lbs. whole ham, or one 5 to 7 lbs. half of a ham

Glaze: 1/3 cups packed brown sugar 2 tsp dry mustard 3 tbsp. cider vinegar, prune juice, wine or ham drippings Whole cloves

Instructions Ham labeled “Cook Before Eating” 1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. 2. To heat the ham, place it on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. For a whole 10 to 15-pound ham, allow 18 to 20 minutes per pound; for a half—5 to 7 pounds—about 20 minutes per pound; or for a shank or butt portion weighing 3 to 4 pounds, about 35 minutes to the pound. In all cases, cook uncovered until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Ham labeled “Fully Cooked or Ready to Eat” 1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. 2. To heat the ham, place it on a rack in a shallow roasting pan, and bake uncovered.

For a whole ham, allow 15 to 18 minutes to the pound; for a half, 18 to 24 minutes per pound. The ham will be ready when the internal temperature reaches 140°F. 3. To glaze the ham, remove it from the oven about 30 minutes before it is done, and increase the oven heat to 425°F. Remove all the rind but a collar around the shank bone. Slash the fat in the top of the ham in a diamond pattern, and cover the surface with brown sugar, dry mustard moistened with cider vinegar, prune juice, wine or ham drippings. Stud the fat at the intersections of the diamonds with whole cloves.

Or decorate with alternating half pineapple rings studded with cranberries and stars cut from preserved orange peel.

4. Return the ham to the oven, reduce the oven heat to 325°F again, and cook about 30 minutes. Place on a platter.

Source: www.epicurious.com

450 Commerce Drive (I-81 Exit 17) Near Hampton Inn A Abingdon, VA (276) 628-4797 www.alfrescolifestyles.com Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–2pm

10 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Stuffing with Bacon Yield: 8 to 10 servings

Ingredients 8 oz. applewood-smoked bacon, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces

Rice: 4 1/2 cups low-salt chicken broth 3 tbsp. chopped fresh thyme 1 1/4 cups short-grain brown rice 1 1/4 cups wild rice

Vegetables: 2 tbsp. unsalted butter at room temperature 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil One 14-oz. bag frozen pearl onions, thawed 1 tsp kosher salt ¾ tsp freshly ground black pepper 12 oz. (3 large) Portobello mushrooms, shredded or thinly sliced 8 oz. of Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted, husked, coarsely chopped, optional

Instructions 1.

2.

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp, 8 to 10 minutes.

Using a slotted spoon, drain the bacon on paper towels.

For the rice: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

In a heavy saucepan or Dutch oven, bring the broth and thyme to a boil over medium-high heat.

Add the brown and wild rice.

Cover the saucepan and simmer until the rice is tender but still chewy, 30 minutes.

Turn off the heat and allow the rice to stand for 10 minutes.

Fluff with a fork.

For the vegetables: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

In the same skillet used to cook the bacon, heat the butter and oil over medium-high heat.

Add the onions and season with ½ tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.

Cook, stirring occasionally until light golden, about 5 minutes.

Add the mushrooms, 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Cook until softened, about 8 minutes.

Add the Brussels sprouts and the remaining 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.

Cook for 5 minutes.

Transfer the vegetable mixture to the saucepan of cooked rice. Add the hazelnuts and cooked bacon. Toss until all the ingredients are mixed.

Transfer to a large bowl and serve.

Recipe courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis, www.foodnetwork.com

Creamed Spinach Yield: 6 to 8 servings

Ingredients 3 tbsp. unsalted butter ¼ cup all-purpose flour 2½ cups whole milk at room temperature Kosher salt ½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg 2 lbs. spinach, tough stems removed 1 large egg plus 2 egg yolks Freshly ground pepper

Instructions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Whisk in the flour until smooth; cook, stirring, until the mixture lightens, about one minute.

Remove from the heat; whisk in the milk, 2 tsp salt and the nutmeg.

Return to medium heat and bring to a boil, whisking.

Remove from the heat again; stir to cool slightly.

Heat a deep skillet over medium heat.

Add the spinach and 1 tsp salt; cover and cook about 3 minutes.

8. Toss with tongs, then continue to wilt, uncovered, about 2 more minutes.

9. Drain and cool slightly, then squeeze the spinach until dry. Coarsely chop.

10. Gently reheat the sauce, then whisk in the whole egg and yolks; cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens.

11. Stir in the spinach; heat through. Season with salt and pepper.

8.

Source: www.foodnetwork.com

13.

Parker House Rolls

14.

15.

16.

Yield: Thirty 2-inch rolls

Source: www.epicurious.com

7.

Ingredients 1 cup milk 2 tbsp. butter, softened 1 tbsp. sugar 3/4 tsp salt 2 tbsp. warm (105° to 115°F) water 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast 1 large egg 3 1/3 to 3 2/3 cups all-purpose flour Melted butter

Instructions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Heat milk until warm (105°to 115°F).

Add and stir butter, sugar, and salt until the sugar is dissolved.

Combine water and yeast in a large bowl and let stand until the yeast is dissolved, about 5 minutes.

When the milk mixture has cooled to lukewarm, stir it into the yeast. Beat in egg, if desired.

Have the flour ready. Stir in part of the flour, then knead in the rest, using only enough to form a dough that can be handled easily.

Place in an oiled bowl. Brush the top with melted butter.

Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk.

9.

10.

11.

12.

Roll the dough out into a 30-inch-long log and cut into 1-inch pieces.

Roll each piece into a ball and flatten into a 2-inch round.

Dip the handle of a knife or wooden spoon in flour and use it to make a deep crease across the middle of each roll.

Fold the rolls over on the crease and press the edges together lightly.

Place about 2 inches apart in rows on greased baking sheets.

Let rise in a warm place until light, about 35 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Bake until golden brown, about 15 minutes.

Remove to a rack to cool.

Cauliflower-Goat Cheese Gratin Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets 2 cups heavy cream ½ lbs. Monterey Jack cheese, coarsely grated 2 cups grated Parmesan 6 oz. goat cheese, cut into small pieces Salt and freshly ground pepper

Instructions Preheat oven to 400°F. 17. Layer the cauliflower, heavy cream, and the 3 cheeses in a medium casserole dish.

18. Season with salt and pepper.

19. Roast for 20 to 30 minutes or until the cauliflower is soft and the sauce has thickened slightly.

20. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Recipe courtesy of Bobby Flay, www.foodnetwork.com

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 11

Quick & Easy Sweets

By Ronda Addy

Holidays are a great time to share special foods with special people. But who has a lot of time to bake during this hectic season? Try these easy-to-make recipes to add homemade touches to your celebrations with family and friends. These easy-to-make cookies are sure to be a hit at any party so why not give them a go?

Cut-out Eggnog Cookies Ingredients 1 cup butter, softened 2 cups sugar 1 cup eggnog (purchased) 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 egg white, lightly beaten Colored sugar

Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. Cream butter and sugar in a bowl.

3. Beat in the eggnog, baking soda and nutmeg. Gradually add flour and mix well.

4. Cover and chill for 1 hour.

5. Roll out half the dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.

Cut into desired shapes.

6. Place on ungreased baking sheets.

Repeat with remaining dough.

7. Brush cookies with egg white; sprinkle with colored sugar.

8. Bake for six to eight minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.

12 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Swedish Cinnamon Cookies

3. To make the Santa hat, sprinkle red sugar on the top half of the white chocolate (leave bottom white as the trim).

Press one white chocolate chip off-center on the red hat as a pompom; let stand until set.

4. When set, dip the other end (about one third) of each cookie into the melted chocolate to make Santa’s beard, leaving the center third of the cookie uncovered.

Place it back on the wire rack.

5. Use a touch of melted chocolate to attach chocolate chips for the eyes and a red hot candy for the nose.

6. Place cookies on wax paper and let set.

Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. Cream butter and gradually add sugar; beat in egg and vanilla.

3. Sift the flour, baking soda and cinnamon together; add to egg mixture and blend thoroughly.

4. Chill for 30 minutes then roll into balls and roll in walnuts-cinnamon-sugar mixture.

5. Place rolled dough balls three inches apart on greased and floured cookie sheet.

6. Bake for 12 minutes.

Stained-glass Cookies

Ingredients 2/3 cup butter 1 cup sugar 1 egg 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 1/3 cup sifted all-purpose flour (sift, then measure) 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. ground cinnamon ½ cup walnuts, finely chopped 2 Tbsp. ground cinnamon 2 Tbsp. sugar

Santa Claus Cookies

Ingredients 12 oz. white baking chocolate 1 lbs. peanut-shaped sandwich cookies Red colored sugar 32 white chocolate chips 64 miniature chocolate chips 32 red hot candies Instructions 1. Chop up the white chocolate and melt it in a heavy saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

2. Dip one end (top one-third) of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place on a wire rack.

Ingredients Pre-made sugar cookie dough 2–8 oz. packages fruit flavored hard candy (assorted colors) Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. Remove dough from the refrigerator. Line two baking sheets with aluminum foil.

3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface.

4. Use cookie cutters to cut dough into various shapes. Cut out a shape from the center of each cookie. Be careful not to cut too close to the edges, or the cookies will break.

5. Place the cookies on the lined baking sheet. Gather up scraps, re-roll and cut, always working with chilled dough.

6. Separate the candy by color and place each color group in a double-thickness of plastic bags.

7. Place one bag at a time in a dish towel.

Crush the candies into approximately 1/4–inch pieces.

8. Fill the cutout shapes with the crushed candies.

9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until candy has melted and is bubbly.

10. Cool for 15 minutes until candies harden before peeling cookies from foil.

Christmas Tree Tips

Picking the tree •

If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled, certified or identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Placing the tree •

Before placing the tree in the stand, cut one to two inches from the base of the trunk.

• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.

• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.

• Add water to the tree stand daily.

Lighting the tree •

Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.

• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect.

• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

DID YOU • Always turn off Christmas tree lights before KNOW? leaving home or going to bed.

Until January 18,

After Christmas •

Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

• Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

local residents may leave their trees curbside. Additionally, you may leave trees at the Winged Deer Park boat ramp parking lot in Johnson City. You are asked to place trees on the northwest side of the parking lot by the recycling station.

G IVE T HE G IFT of Beauty

JCP Author Cruisin’ One of our Jan-Carol Publishing authors, Tawana Campbell, enjoyed a Caribbean cruise and was recognized among her fellow passengers. She provided signed copies of her book, Shattered But Not Broken with great success. Her book will be traveling to many ports, now, as it is part of the ship’s library as well.

Congratulations to Tawana!

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 13

Gifts for Gardeners

By April Hensley

M

any outdoor hobbies are forgotten during the cold, frigid months.

Footballs, golf clubs, tennis rackets and fishing poles are tucked away to gather dust until warmer days appear.

Gardening could be called a hobby.

We say we garden for the exercise, or to supplement our food supply or to beautify our lawns. But in our hearts we know better. We garden because it is a part of who we are.

It’s like breathing air; however, as gardeners, we breathe in the sweet scent of roses and the earthy smell of fresh, harvested potatoes.

That’s why buying gifts for gardeners is so easy. Gardening doesn’t end for us after the frosts have finished off the growing season. We start planning in our minds and sometimes on paper what we are doing the next season. While the ground is frozen and icicles are hanging from the roof, we dream of a tiny seed tucked away in the earth waiting for us to love and cherish it.

If you have a special gardener in your life, I’ve put a few gift ideas together here.

Don’t worry, as long as it has to do with gardening, your gift will be a winner!

• Gardeners spend a lot of time on their knees. The damp and cold can sometimes take a toll on achy tired joints.

Some help includes kneepads, a foam waterproof kneeling pad, or even a high tech metal and padded kneeling stool.

• An easy creative idea for a garden seat would be to decorate a sturdy bucket with a lid to use as a portable seat.

The bucket can serve double use during harvest season.

Fill with seed packs or garden tools and add a bow for a complete gift.

• A thoughtful gift would be a lovely sunhat in a decorative hatbox. Gardeners spend huge amounts of time in the sun. It can eventually take a toll on skin causing premature aging and even skin cancer. Remember that some hats are one-size-fits-all and others have sizes on the little tag inside.

• Gardener’s hands get very wet and dirty. Gloves paired with a nice bottle of moisturizing lotion will get a lot of use. Tuck both of them into a pretty flower pot for added effect.

• For indoor winter gardening, boxed bulb kits are perfect.

They come with the soil, the pot and the flower bulb.

Easy to wrap too!

{

Have a very Merry Christmas!

April Hensley works as an office manager and is an avid gardener, writer and greenhouse hobbyist. April loves the outdoors and is passionate about animal welfare and the environment. She can be reached at aprils1105@embarqmail.com.

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Up For a Holiday Trip?

By Tresa Erickson

T

he holidays are quickly approaching, and this year, you may be planning to make the drive to see distant family. Whether a drive across town or a ten hour road trip, you’ll be sharing the road with more than 50 million other holiday travelers, so you’ll need to take care. It is imperative that you stay alert at all times and practice defensive driving.

Every year, many people overindulge in the festivities of the season and suffer from sleep debt as they get less rest every night. Hundreds of accidents result from drivers falling asleep behind the wheel during the holiday season. Don’t let it happen to you.

Learn to recognize the common signs of drowsiness: • • • • • • •

Having difficulty focusing Fidgeting Hitting a rumble strip Missing traffic signs Tailgating Experiencing wandering thoughts Yawning repeatedly Should you experience any of these signs, pull over immediately and either let someone else drive or take a nap.

Of course, the best course of action is to avoid sleep debt in the first place.

Even the most rested of drivers can become tired when driving for long periods of time. To ensure you stay awake and alert, follow these tips: • Avoid driving between the hours of 1 and 4 pm and between midnight and 6 am. These two time periods MIKE SMITH - OWNER are when the body is the sleepiest.

• Bring along some peppermint or • Affordable, dependable, pre-owned cars cinnamon. The scent of these will • Most of our inventory is priced at $2995 or less help you stay alert and soothe any aggression you may experience due Same location since 1955!

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23850 JEB STUART HIGHWAY • Talk to passengers. Conversing with JUST OUTSIDE THE DAMASCUS CITY LIMITS. others will keep you awake.

Open M – F, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• Sing along with music. If you are traveling alone, turn on the radio or at RalphSmithAutoSalesDamascusVA play a CD and belt out a few tunes to stay awake. If you’re not alone, sing louder.

• Take frequent breaks. Get out of the car for at least 15 minutes every two hours. This will keep you alert.

Keep in mind that the more well rested you are before your trip, the more likely you are to stay alert and a have a safe trip. Get plenty of rest before you leave, 5 511 W. Market St. | Johnson City, TN learn the signs of drowsiness and take the precautions necessary to remain alert.

Should you ever feel sleepy, let someone www.jonesoktire.com else take the wheel or get off the road.

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 15

Journeys of Women Art Show III

T

By Pam Blair

he breathtaking beauty of northeast Tennessee inspires women in the region to produce stunning art work which was recently on display at the Journeys of Women Art Show III at the McKinney Center in Jonesborough from October 31–November 7. Each of the artists exhibited two new pieces in various mediums, such as oils and pastels, photography, encaustics, sculpture, pottery, fiber and beading.

This was the third year for the art show, which was organized by the Women’s Fund of the East Tennessee Foundation and Jonesborough’s Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts. All of the art work was available for purchase and proceeds from the show help to benefit low-income women and girls in East Tennessee.

The Art Show III opening reception, held at the McKinney Center on October 30, was hosted by Chairman Judy Ingala and sponsored by The Trust Company of Knoxville, Fidelity Investments, Hilliard Lyons, Cindy Rowland of Merrill Lynch, Bank of America, First Tennessee Bank and Regions Bank. The mission of the Women’s Fund is to serve as a catalyst to transform the lives of

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low-income women, with the belief that when you invest in a woman, you invest in a family, a community and ultimately a region. To fulfill that mission, grants are given to organizations that fit the mission and in just three years of grant making, the fund has distributed over $240,000. In northeast Tennessee, Tusculum University in Greeneville, Red Legacy in Elizabethton and the Carter County Girls and Boys Club have all received grants.

For more information, visit the Women’s Fund website at www. womensfundetn.org or contact Terry Morgan at 877.524.1223.

Photographs by Chris Rise

“Christmas waves a

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16 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

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How We Were So Close to Never Roasting Another Chestnut

By Jordan Mallory

C

hestnut trees have been a part of the American ecosystem for thousands of years. Because of this the trees have a special relationship with the environment from the birds and insects to the rocks, water, and even how fires spread. Essentially, the Appalachian Mountains, the native home of the American chestnut, have been shaped by the chestnut tree.

Unfortunately, blight in 1908, originating in China, almost completely wiped out this population. The blight works like an infection, spread by spores in the air and water and entering the tree through surface injuries. From there, it destroys tissue and “chokes” the tree by cutting off nutrient flow to everything above the infected area. The American chestnut tree, which had evolved in the absence of this blight, was essentially defenseless. Four billion trees perished.

It wasn’t until 1989 with the founding of the Wagner Research farm in Meadowview, VA that American chestnut trees made a recovery. The American Chestnut Foundation discovered that by crossbreeding the American chestnut with the Chinese chestnut—the very tree that brought the blight to America—they were able to create a hybrid that was blight resistant. By then “backcrossing” the hybrid with an American chestnut (resulting in a 75% American—25% Chinese hybrid), researchers were able to produce a brand new species that was not only blight-resistant but had all the physical characteristics of the American chestnut.

Locally, Meadowview, VA is now home of the largest chestnut research farms in the country. Over the past 25 years,

Chestnut Risotto with Butternut Squash Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

6 cups low-salt chicken broth ¼ cup cream Sherry 1 tbsp. olive oil 3 tbsp. butter, divided 1 small white onion, finely chopped ½ small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cut into ¼-inch pieces 1½ cups (10 oz.) Arborio rice 2 cups peeled roasted chestnuts, or jarred chestnuts, chopped 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme 1 tsp chopped fresh marjoram ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp. chopped fresh Italian parsley

the research farm has expanded to over 150 acres, including almost 50,000 trees in various stages of development. From there if you head east on US-58 toward Galax, VA and the Matthews State Forest, you’ll find i a breeding orchard dedicated to chestnut trees with blight resistance.

Thanks to Nat King Cole’s 1946 recording of “The Christmas Song,” chestnuts have become a symbol of the holiday.

This season, be sure to enjoy the Appalachian treasure we came so close to losing.

Tips for Cooking with Chestnuts Sure, the iconic image of chestnuts roasting on an open fire is magical, but we would have preferred it if the next line in the classic Christmas ballad involved a chocolate chestnut torte baking instead of Jack Frost nipping. In fact, we adore almost anything, sweet or savory, in which rich-tasting, low-infat chestnuts appear. Here are some of our favorites.

Choose Wisely Look for chestnuts with firm, uncracked shells that are heavy for their size.

Store Properly Store chestnuts in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator for two weeks or in the freezer for several months.

Substitute to Save Time Shelling freshly roasted chestnuts is time-consuming. Fortunately, chestnuts in a can or jar make an acceptable substitute in most recipes.

Check for Sweetness If a recipe calls for chestnut purée, you can either make it yourself or purchase it from a gourmet grocer. If you opt for the latter, note that some are sweetened and some are not, so make sure you get the right kind for your recipe.

Cook with More Fall Ingredients Choosing ingredients like mushrooms, apples or pears can really bring out the flavors of the season.

Instructions

1. Bring chicken broth and Sherry to boil in medium saucepan over high heat. Reduce heat to low; cover and keep warm.

2. Meanwhile, heat oil and 2 tbsp. butter in heavy large saucepan over medium heat.

3. Add onion and squash; cook until onion is translucent, stirring often, about 10 minutes.

4. Add rice; stir until rice is translucent at edges but still opaque in center, about 3 minutes.

5. Add 1 cup warm broth; simmer until almost absorbed, stirring often, about 4 minutes.

6. Add more broth, 1 cup at a time, allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding next until rice is just tender, stirring frequently, about 25 minutes total.

7. Stir in chestnuts, thyme, and marjoram.

8. Remove from heat; stir in remaining 1 tbsp. butter, cheese, and parsley.

9. Season risotto with salt and pepper and serve. Souce: Epicurious.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 17

Wine Time During the Holidays WINE AT HOME

If you’re serving wine at home during your own dinner party, basic wine etiquette suggests serving a wine that pairs well with the food.

If your guests would like to enjoy a glass of wine before dinner, a lighter white wine or sparkling wine is most appropriate. This doesn’t mean you can’t serve a glass of Pinot Noir if you know your guests well and this is their favorite.

When you serve your guests, it’s nice to use the appropriate wine glasses. Try not to serve wine in plastic or paper. I know this gets a bit unrealistic if you’re having a large party.

Never fill a glass to the top with wine. I like to leave at least half the glass empty, sometimes closer to twothirds depending upon the type of glass.

When you are a guest at someone else’s home, it is good wine etiquette to allow the host or hostess to serve your wine, unless he or she suggests you help yourself.

RED WINE SERVING TEMPERATURE

It’s better to serve your red wine too cold than too warm. A common misconception is that red wine should be served at room temperature. This makes no sense since factoring in geography and season, room temperature can vary greatly. Nothing ruins a fine red wine more quickly than drinking it at too high a temperature.

You do not want to serve your red wine at a temperature higher than 60–65°F, depending upon the type of red wine. You will want to serve Beajoulais, a light, fruity red at the lowest temperature (approximately 55°F), your medium bodied reds such as Chiante, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel at a slightly higher temperature (approximately 60°F), and your full bodied reds such as Bordeaux, Cabernet, Merlot, and Shiraz a hint warmer (approximately 63–65°F).

To reach the proper wine serving temperature, it is best to have the correct type of home storage unit so your wines are kept at a constant 55–60°F. However, if your red wine has been stored at room temperature, you’ll want to either put it in the refrigerator or into an ice bucket for 30–60 minutes before serving. Be sure to include water with the ice—it will chill more quickly.

A red wine served too warm (above 65°F) loses its freshness and many of its characteristic aromas and flavors. If a red wine imparts too much of its alcohol content as flavor, it is never a desirable taste.

It’s more convenient to allow a wine to warm up in its glass than to put it back in the refrigerator or ice bucket. One easy way to warm up a glass of wine is to cup your hands around the glass while you swirl.

WHITE WINE SERVING TEMPERATURE

For white wines, the opposite may be true. It’s better to serve a white wine too warm than too cold. White wines served too cold (under 45°F) lose many of their flavors and aromas.

However, you still want to serve your white wines colder than your red wines. Serving white wines at a lower temperature brings out their natural fruity, fresh, and sweet characteristics.

18 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Depending upon the wine and your personal preference, you’ll want to serve your white wines between 45ºF and 55°F. A Reisling will be better a bit colder than a Pinot Gris or a Chardonnay.

Since most home refrigerators are kept at between 35–40°F, it’s best not to serve your white wines right out of the refrigerator. Removing your white wine from the refrigerator 30–60 minutes before serving should bring them to about the right temperature.

If your white wine has been kept at room temperature, place it in the refrigerator or ice bucket for 30–60 minutes before serving.

SPARKLING WINE SERVING TEMPERATURE

A good sparkling wine (champagne) is best served just a hint colder than a white wine. You can usually drink your sparkling wine right out of the refrigerator at about 40°F, but you may find its flavors are enhanced if you let it stand for 15–20 minutes before serving.

FORTIFIED WINE AND DESSERT WINE SERVING TEMPERATURE

These wine serving temperatures are a little harder to categorize.

There is such a wide variety of vintages, flavors, aromas and body types in fortified and dessert wine, the temperature to serve these really varies.

In general, if your wine is lighter, fruitier, and younger, it should be served slighter cooler. If it’s older, heavier, and more complex, it should be served slightly warmer.

An exception, of course, is ice wine, who by its very name indicates it should be served very chilled, even more so than sparkling wine.

BRINGING WINE TO DINNER

When you are invited to someone’s home for dinner, it’s always appropriate to bring a bottle of wine. It’s not good wine etiquette to expect your wine to be opened that evening. Most hosts or hostesses will have their wine planned out ahead of time to pair with their meal. Do not bring a bottle of white wine already chilled. This assumes you expect the host or hostess to open it.

WINE AS A GIFT

Many people ask me what kind of wine to give as a gift. If you’re buying the wine for someone you know, the obvious answer would be to choose a bottle you know they’ll enjoy.

Another suggestion would be to get them a bottle they may not be familiar with, but you know they’d be open to trying.

If you’re buying wine for someone you don’t know well, stay neutral. Buy a medium priced wine of medium body. It is suggested a $15–$20 bottle of Sauvignon Blanc if it’s warm out or a $15–$20 bottle of Merlot or Zinfandel if it’s cool out.

Shop at a wine specialty shop and ask the expert there for recommendations. Don’t go to a grocery store and choose blindly yourself.

Sourec: basic-wine-knowledge.com

DID YOU KNOW? Red wine seems to have even more heart-healthy benefits than do other types of alcohol. Antioxidants in red wine called polyphenols may help protect the lining of blood vessels in your heart. A polyphenol called resveratrol is one substance in red wine that’s gotten attention. It might be a key ingredient in red wine that helps prevent damage to blood vessels, reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and prevents blood clots.

Jewelry Reference for Last-Minute Shoppers

By Doris A. Black

A

re you looking for a nice piece of jewelry this holiday season? How about a pearl necklace, a ruby pendant or a platinum bracelet? Do you know which is the most expensive of these three? Whether you are considering gemstones, gold or platinum, it’s wise to be familiar with jewelry terms before setting foot in a jewelry store. Let’s start with the most expensive type of jewelry on the market today: platinum.

It is rare to find a piece of jewelry made of pure platinum. A precious metal, platinum is often combined with other metals, such as rhodium, palladium, iridium, or osmium. The amount of platinum used is indicated by markings such as 900 Plat. (or Pt.).

In this example, 900 means 900 out of 1,000 parts pure platinum.

In other words, the item is 90% platinum and 10% other metals.

If a marking reads without numbers and just contains the word platinum, then the piece contains 950 parts or above pure platinum. Any amount over 900 may be indicated with just the word platinum; however, it is not uncommon to see pieces indicating not only the platinum amount but also the amount of other metals such as 700 platinum/300 iridium. Naturally, the more platinum, the higher the price.

Silver is often marked in a similar manner. For example, a sterling silver piece marked 925 means that 925 parts out of 1,000 are pure silver. The term silverplate refers to a layer of silver over another less valuable base metal, while vermeil describes a layer of gold over sterling silver.

Gold jewelry dictates a different numbering system for marking the pure content of the metal. The term gold is generally understood to mean 24 karat (24K) gold, or pure gold. Other markings refer to gold mixed with different metals to add strength.

Commonly seen are 22K, 14K and 10K. Most men’s jewelry is made of 10K because of its higher strength and durability.

When a layer of gold is added to a base metal, it is called gold plate, gold overlay or rolled gold plate and is indicated in the marking (22K Gold Overlay or 14K RGP). When the gold karat content in the layer is minimal, it is marked accordingly, such as 1/40 22K Gold Overlay. Gold plating will eventually wear off just as silver plating does, revealing a rather dull finish similar to nickel.

Gemstones come in every color imaginable and can be obtained no matter what your budget, but know what you’re buying. Natural gemstones are mined stones of Mother Nature’s creation. In contrast, synthetic or imitation stones are not. Synthetic stones are laboratory created or “grown” with the same physical characteristics as natural stones. Imitation stones are either made of glass or plastic.

Size, weight and rarity price gemstones. Size is expressed in millimeters. A stone measuring 5x7 millimeters will cost more than one 2x3 millimeters. Weight is measured by carats. There are 100 units to a carat so a one-half carat stone would be written as .50 carats. A carat translates to .2 grams (0.007 ounces).

Diamonds are perennial favorites but it takes a practiced eye to detect clarity, color, cut and carat—the four criteria for valuing a diamond. That’s why experts use a ten-power magnification

to determine diamond grade. A “flawless” diamond must have no surface or internal imperfections.

Diamonds are measured in carats. Small diamonds may be stated as decimals. For example, .20 carats represents a diamond with a weight range between .195–.202.

As with other stones, diamonds may be treated to enhance appearance. Cubic Zirconia is a lab-created imitation diamond commonly used in less expensive jewelry.

Mother Nature creates pearls in a variety of colors such as purple, blue, bronze, gold, orange, black, and white. Because they are made by oysters and other mollusks, unassisted by man, they are very rare and expensive. Cultured pearls are made by mollusks as well, but with human intervention. Pricing for natural pearls and cultured pearls are based on size, measured in millimeters, and the quality of their luster.

Imitation pearls are made from synthetic materials such as plastic.

Keep your wits about you when buying jewelry this holiday season.

Determine how much money you want to spend and tell the salesperson so they have a good idea of what pieces to show you. Remember, some jewelry salespeople work on commission and may try to push you toward a more expensive piece. It’s easy to get swept away by the spirit of giving at this time of year, so keep in mind that it’s the thought that counts.

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www.goodmanjewelers.biz voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 19

By Craig W. Armstrong

’Tis the season for holiday shopping, and for some people, it can get tedious. Some folks put their heart and soul into holiday shopping, getting gifts for everyone from their family to their mail carrier. But what if you could do your shopping and help your community all at the same time? One way to do this is to shop local. Shopping local is a concept that has been around for years, but tying it to the holidays really got a push with Small Business Saturday. Small Business Saturday is the Saturday following Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

It began in 2010 as a marketing campaign by American Express. While Black Friday benefits the big box retailers and Cyber Monday benefits online shopping, Small Business Saturday carves out a day for the Mom and Pop stores. So how does shopping local benefit you, the consumer?

• First, you have much more control and probably get much better customer service.

• Shopping local keeps your community strong. Spending money locally keeps that money in the community which helps the community grow. A growing community will then have a better opportunity to support other local organizations like youth sports, non-profits and charitable organizations.

• Shopping local also creates jobs. The more successful a local business, the more people they will need to hire, and if more people are employed, a community becomes healthier. Also, consider how local businesses can make your community more unique. Big box chain stores are everywhere and their products are all the same.

• The more people that shop your community, the stronger its economy becomes, and this can benefit everyone.

• From a tax standpoint, small businesses make better use of your tax dollars. These businesses require much less infrastructure investment than national chains, and small local businesses are also more efficient with the use of public services. Both of these factors allow your tax dollars to go father.

Shopping local this holiday season is a great idea for many reasons. So before you start checking things off of your list, check out your locals business. It’s a win for them, for you and for your community.

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The Invitation

By Kelly McFadden

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” King James Version (KJV) You are cordially invited to A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION! Guest of Honor: Jesus Christ Date: Every day. Traditionally, December 25, but He’s always around, so the date is flexible . . .

Time: Whenever you’re ready.

(Please don’t be late, though, or you’ll miss out on all the fun!)

Place: In your heart . . . He’ll meet you there.

(You’ll hear Him knock.)

Attire: Come as you are . . . grubbies are okay.

He’ll be washing us clean anyway.

Cost: Admission is free. He’s already paid for everyone.

You wouldn’t have been able to afford it anyway . . . it cost Him everything He had. But you do need to accept the ticket!

What an invitation! I know I don’t want to miss out on this one. It’s Christmastime again and we are beginning to gear up, celebrating the birth of Jesus. It is a great party! The only issue is that this is not something that should be celebrated simply once a year. God is waiting for you each and every day, no matter which stage of your faith you are. He wants you to give Him your life and your heart. He wants you to know you are made uniquely and you are special. Perhaps you should take some time now to accept, or renew your acceptance, to this gracious invitation. It is an ongoing invitation, so you are invited every day to celebrate and participate in the love of Jesus.

“And she (Virgin Mary) shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.” Matthew 21 (KJV)

Bristol Christian Women’s Club The Euclid Center at Food City 1320 Euclid Avenue, Bristol, VA 3rd Wednesday of each month 11:30 am, $15 each Open to all Women Special Speakers, Entertainment and Luncheon For reservations call Nancy Young (423) 968-7976.

Bristol Christian Women’s Club is affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries

Gift Suggestions: Your life. He’s one of those people who already has everything else. He’s very generous in return though. Just wait until you see what He has for you! *Author Unknown.

Find Your Voice!

“Hills Are Alive” Harmonizes in 4 parts Tuesdays at 7:00 pm on the lower level of the Bristol Mall.

“ The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.”

—Burton Hillis

This small, award-winning, all-ladies chorus is a proud chapter of Sweet Adelines International. Come join us for fun and fellowship.

For information: 276-628-8692 or www.hillsarealive.org

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 21

JCP NEW RELEASES THE ANGELS ARE EVERYWHERE SERIES

CARROLL C. JONES’S MASTER OF THE EAST FORK EARNS HIGH PRAISE FROM N.C. SOCIETY OF HISTORIANS

“After reading the novel, one realizes that not only have they been entertained, they have been educated. The reader becomes lost in the story in the sense that, through reader-friendly text, scenes begin to form in the mind’s eye due to vivid descriptions of beautiful scenery, the characters involved, and daily life.”

Molly Thompson is a country girl, through and through. Molly becomes a wanderer when she reaches age of 60 Rebel Rousers, the sequel to Master of the the East Fork, is a historical fictionand novel set during the American Civil War. It tells the coming-of-age tale of a youthful Rebel keeps theNorth roads from soldier who hails from the western Carolina hot highlands.

At once, itApril seems, the to strapping lad has to bear-up under his romantic longings for the miller’s daughter, the hateful acts ofDecember an antagonist named Bugg, various personal tragedies, and the terrible every year selling her trials of war. Will he survive the war? What about the girl? Best you pick-up a copy and find out. crocheted angels. She believes the Noted western North Carolina writer Kathy Nanney Ross says in her foreword, angels she designs and creates “Carroll Jones blends unique story-telling and crafty writing with historical facts and regional lifestyles to create a superb, thought-provoking novel, Rebel Rousers. from yarn have put her under their His book reminds us how the lines between joy and sorrow, good and evil, and justice and vengeance can blur. As a good historical novel should, Rebel Rousers She doesn’t outsacrificing to bea a transports usspell. back in time and teaches us about ourset past without compelling story. Enjoy.” do-gooder, but it seems that her life just leans that way. This book shares Molly’s angel-influenced life with anyone who believes in angels and with those whose opinions can be changed, even if it is just a little bit CARROLL C. JONES was born and raised in the western North Carolina mountains and is directly descended from pioneering families of Haywood County, the setting for this book. He presently lives in Morristown, Tennessee with his wife Maria, but they manage to retreat to the Carolina highlands on a regular basis. Rebel Rousers is Carroll’s second novel and is a sequel to his Master of the East Fork. You can find out more about Carroll and his books on his website at carrolljones.weebly.com.

LINDA HUDSON HOAGLAND

R EBEL R OUSERS

CARROLL C. JONES

5

ORE

Onward & Upward

Onward & Upward

WINNER OF the Clark Cox Historical Fiction Award for 2015

by Linda Hudson Hoagland

R EBEL R OUSERS

er mystery novels Doggone Deadly e author of works of along with a volume awards for her work, k Award for Social ort Story Contest. alachian Authors angels.com or email

LINDA HUDSON HOAGLAND

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ONWARD & UPWARD

Border

ough. Molly and keeps the g her crocheted tes from yarn o be a do-gooder,

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Books Make Great Gifts!

OUT NOW

ine as we follow se in her life after ife takes on an an uplifting story a time.”

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is a small independent publishing press with a motivated force of authors. Mountain Girl Press; Little Creek Books, Express Editions; DigiStyle and RoseHeart are all imprints of Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.

U.S. $14.95 • CAN $16.95 COPYRIGHT 2015

FRONT COVER ILLUSTRATION: EDIE HUTCHINS BURNETTE COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE

AUTHOR PHOTO: MOZINGO PHOTOGRAPHY OF ASHEVILLE, N.C.

A Novel by

CARROLL C. JONES

JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

Fiction

Missing Sammy

“Revelation may be the most action-packed entry in The Glade Series and Adventures in The Glade yet.

A romance, sorrow, a rafting trip gone awry, evil cousin Ronnie up to nefarious no-good, the Old Ones watching over Davy and his family— I couldn't stop turning the next page to find out what would happen next.”

Adventures in The Glade | Book 3 Adventures in The Glade | Book 3

by Linda Hudson Hoagland

Ella Hutchins discovers that she is the strong woman of Appalachian stock. She knows she is when she must overcome a tragic event in her life which takes away her The plot thickens when the Old Ones realize evil Cousin Ronnie is reason for living. Her sons are long plotting other ways to lay hands on The Glade. Through their spying and reconnaissance efforts, they present the evidence to Davy’s gone with families of their own, so family and Sheriff Peabody. But will that evidence be enough to keep Ronnie at bay, or will the need for irrefutable proof force the she and Sammy are there for each Old Ones to take the greatest risk of all? other. When that life ends, she struggles to start a new life.

— Glynn Young, author, Dancing Priest, A Light Shining, and Poetry at Work

REVELATION

U.S. $13.95 • CAN $15.95

by Carroll C. Jones

Rebel Rousers, the sequel to Master of the East Fork, is a historical fiction novel set during the American Civil War. It tells the coming-of-age tale of a youthful Rebel soldier who hails from the western North Carolina highlands. At once, it seems, the strapping lad has to bear-up under his romantic longings for the miller’s daughter, the hateful acts of an antagonist named Bugg, various personal tragedies, and the terrible trials of war.

Will he survive the war? What about the girl? Best you pickup a copy and find out.

Revelation Adventures in The Glade | Book 3

by Martha Jane Orlando

Revelation

Martha Jane Orlando is passionate about writing and hopes you will be just as passionate about reading both The Glade Series and Adventures in The Glade. You can visit Martha Jane at her website gladetrilogy.wix.com/theglade or at facebook.com/nantahala55.

COPYRIGHT 2015 AUTHOR PHOTO AND FRONT COVER PHOTO: DANNY ORLANDO COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

Rebel Rousers

MARTHA JANE ORLANDO

The plot thickens when the Old Ones realize evil Cousin Ronnie is plotting other ways to lay hands on The Glade.

Through their spying and reconnaissance efforts, they present the evidence to Davy’s family and Sheri Peabody. But will that evidence be enough to keep Ronnie at bay, or will the need for irrefutable proof force the Old Ones to take the greatest risk of all?

The Manor

Touch of Love

Joseph Stuart, a wealthy Scot marble baron, builds The Manor in 1890, in Ebyville, Georgia, to win his bride. The manse has always been in the Stuart Family, until Katherine, a music teacher who moves to Ebyville, from New Mexico, falls in love with The Manor, and purchases a seeming dichotomy of exterior disrepair yet with beautiful flower gardens. She is unprepared, as is the entire town, for The Manor’s unfolding secrets of its 106-year old history.

Author John Goiser has compiled a beautiful collection of religiousthemed poems in Touch of Love. Suitable for any reader, the poems are both inspirational and soul fulfilling.

by Betty Kossick

22 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

by John Goiser

Carroll C. Jones – Master of the East Fork, Rebel Rousers Saturday, December 12, 2015, 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm, Book Signing, Blue Ridge Books, Waynesville, NC “every story needs a book”

AUTHORS on the ROAD Spirit of the Season Shopping Event at Bristol Public Library — Friday, December 4th from 6 pm to 8 pm and Saturday, December 5th from 10 am to 4 pm Featured authors appearing throughout the weekend Blake Gardner – Inhuman Emergence: Innocence Young Adult Science Fiction Series Carroll C. Jones – Master of the East Fork, Rebel Rousers Cathy Peters-Sidebottom – I Will Lift up my Eyes to the Hills Connie Clyburn – Willie the Silly-Haired Snowman Fred Waage – The Birth Spoon and Sinking Creek Journal Hazel Fleming – The Pink Irish Rose and Thorns of the Pink Irish Rose Romance/Paranormal Series Jessica Beaver – The Night of Halloween and A Father’s Love Jessica Helton – The Voice of God Kim Rohrer – The Adventures of Little Dooey Children’s Books Series Linda Hudson Hoagland – The Lindsay Harris Murder Mystery Series and various other novels Rita Quillen – Hiding Ezra Tawana Campbell – Shattered But Not Broken Willie E. Dalton – Three Witches in a Small Town “Believe & Achieve” Winner 2014 _____________________________________

Computer Science Education Week In honor of Admiral Grace Hopper, December 7th through the 13th is Computer Science Education Week. Admiral Grace Hopper is undoubtedly the most influential woman when it comes to the invention of the computer. She coined the term debugging when she removed a dead moth from a computer. Across the region, schools (including University High, Dobyns Bennett, and Virginia High) will be introducing Code for an Hour into their curriculum to engage students with computer programming and development.

EXPERT BOOK EDITING SERVICES

Linda Hudson Hoagland – Onward and Upward; Missing Sammy; Snooping Can Be Doggone Deadly; Snooping Can Be Devious; Snooping Can Be Contagious; Snooping Can Be Dangerous; The Best Darn Secret; and anthologies Broken Petals and Christmas Blooms

Judi Light Hopson

Tuesday, December 1, 2015, 11:30 am to 5:00 pm, Christmas Bazaar, Southwest Virginia Community College, Richlands, VA tional

Ask the Book Editor Judi Light Hopson Call:

Q: I have two publishers 423.743.9052 Email:

• We serve na

s Thursday, December 2015, toer 1:30 ish publam al11:30 and3,loc pm, Lost State Writers Guild Meeting, Golden Corral, Johnson City, ov TNide a FREE sample • We pr

ok boBook Friday, Decembered 4, 2015, pmyo to 8ur pm, iting6 of Signing, Spirit of the Season, Bristol Public Library, 701 Goode Street, Bristol, VA

Saturday, December 5, 2015, 10 am to 4 pm, Book Signing, Spirit of the Season, Bristol Public Library, 701 Goode Street, Bristol, VA

judihopson@earthlink.n willing to take a looketat my motivational book. They both liked my proposal and sample chapter. Should I invest in an editor before I submit my book?

—Tamara G., instructor, University of Georgia

A: Yes, you need the book

Tuesday, December 8, 2015, 11 am to 1 pm, Reading, Reminiscent Writers Meeting, Southwest Virginia Community College, Richlands, VA

edited before submission to any publisher. Having a polished manuscript will convince your publisher that you’ve taken all aspects of your work seriously. Any obvious errors can cause others to question your capabilities. Even if you are required to make changes later on, you’ll be that much closer to having a finished product.

Friday, December 11, 2015, 10 am to 5 pm, Book Signing, Kingsport Town Center, 2101 Fort Henry Drive, Kingsport, TN Saturday, December 12, 2015, 10 am to 5 pm, Book Signing, Kingsport Town Center, 2101 Fort Henry Drive, Kingsport, TN Rebecca & Madelyn Spindler – Sara Jane is Pain, Life According to Liz, Moving Out and Moving On Saturday, December 5, 2015 11am–3pm, Stateline Authors Event, Book signing and reading, Beloit Public Library, Beloit WI Tawana Campbell – Shattered But Not Broken Friday, December 11, 2015 10 am–9 pm Saturday, 12, 2015 10 am–9 pm Kingsport Town Center (Formerly Ft. Henry Mall)

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• We provide a FREE sample editing of your book voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 23

Local Holiday Gift Guide

Custom designed ring with 3.03ct tourmaline and 1.47cttw of diamonds set in 14kt white gold. This ring retails for $ 6,995. Currently on sale for $5,595.

Poinsettias are a great gift idea for people on your holiday list.

Indoor Farms

Goodman Jewelers

28356 Hawthorne Dr. Meadowview, VA 276-944-3665 www.indoorfarmsgreenhouses.com

Abingdon Towne Centre Abingdon, VA Moving to Main St. in 2016 276-676-3110 www.goodmanjewelers.biz

Lady Primrose Gift Set in Royal Extract set includes Body Crème, Bathing Gel and decorative soap in the bestselling Royal Extract scent, and an unscented Lip Full Fill Lip Balm.

This is a great value at $24.50.

Finer Things for Her 1880 N. Eastman Rd., Suite 230 Kingsport, TN 423-343-9043 www.finerthingsforher.com

Marj on Main has a large selection of scarves and accessories to please every woman on your list.

Marj on Main 121 W Main St. Jonesborough, TN 423-753-0233

24 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Vera Bradley bags and accessories can be found at LuElla’s Gift Market.

LuElla’s Gift Market 117 E Main St. Rogersville, TN 423-272-7656

Dempsey’s custom two-stone diamond pendant set in 14k white gold would make a great gift.

Atlantis has the area’s largest selection of natural gemstone jewelry.

Dempsey’s Jewelers

Atlantis

242 E. Main St. Johnson City, TN 423-926-8884 www.atlantisjohnsoncity.com

3018 Peoples St. #100 Johnson City, TN 423-282-5510 dempseysjewelers.com

Kaley’s has an array of beautiful accessories that would make a perfect gift or stocking stuffer!

Kaley’s 139 E Main St. Jonesborough, TN 423-753-5305

These gorgeous bags can be found at Mauk’s of Jonesborough. They carry a large selection of purses and accessories by Vera Bradley.

Mauk’s of Jonesborough

Our Attic has brand-name apparel and accessories at discounted prices.

Our Attic 4451 N. Roan St. Suite 201 Johnson City, TN 423-915-1052 www.ouratticconsignment.com

101 W Main St Jonesborough, TN 423-753-4648 www.mauks.com

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 25

Kick off the Holiday Shopping Season with &

The Art D'Vine Tour

Sponsored by the Arts and Entertainment District of Historic Bristol VA/TN and Believe in Bristol

Spirit of the Season Shopping Event

Dec. 4th & 5th

Dec. 4th – Friday Night Experience a Private, Exclusive Shopping Event to Benefit Bristol Public Library 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Enjoy an Evening of delights including: • A “Meet & Greet” with local authors • Special discounts on books of all genres, with personalized signing by the authors • A welcome tote bag full of ‘FREE’ goodies will be given to the first 50 attendees who come by the Bristol Public Library to view the artwork in the Virgie R. Fleenor Art Gallery and meet the authors from Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. in the J. Henry Kegley Meeting Room.

• Cost is a $5 donation to them and more information will be available at believeinbristol.org about the tour, or by calling the Bristol Public Library at 276.645.8780.

Saturday, Dec. 5th

Delight in the Spirit of the Season Book Event with Local Authors AND Story Time for Children, as well as Publishing Forums for Teens and Adults 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Book sales with hourly door prizes!

Receive a tote bag full of ‘FREE’ goodies while supplies last

to !

E E FR end STORY TIME & PUBLISHING FORUM SCHEDULE att 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – CHILDREN’S STORY TIME –

Various JCP authors will read their books and be available for signings and pictures with the children afterward 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM – INSPIRING TEEN WRITERS SEMINAR – Local teen and published author, Jessica Beaver, speaks to inspire other teens to pursue writing and publishing 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM – PUBLISHING YOUR BOOK – Local author and Writing/Publishing Consultant, Tammy Robinson Smith, presents a program for aspiring writers and authors

Bristol Public Library • 701 Goode St, Bristol, VA (276) 645-8780 Sponsored by: Jan-Carol

Publishing, Inc.

Keep your pets safe this holiday

T

he holiday season is upon us, and many pet parents plan to include their furry companions in the festivities. As you gear up for the holidays, it is important to try to keep your pet’s eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as possible. Also, please be sure to steer pets clear of the following unhealthy treats, toxic plants and dangerous decorations.

Be Careful with Seasonal Plants and Decorations Oh, Christmas Tree Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling.

Avoid Mistletoe & Holly Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. And many varieties of lilies can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.

Tinsel-less Town Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching “toy” that’s easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It’s best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.

Avoid Holiday Food Dangers

unattended alcoholic drinks where pets cannot get to them. If ingested, your pet could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure.

Selecting Special Treats Looking to stuff your pet’s stockings? Stick with chew toys that are basically indestructible: Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods or chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible. The most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating surgery. Surprise kitty with a new ball that’s too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer.

Plan a Pet-Safe Holiday Gathering House Rules If your animal-loving guests would like to give your pets a little extra attention and exercise while you’re busy tending to the party, ask them to feel free to start a nice play or petting session.

A Room of Their Own Give your pet his own quiet space to retreat to—complete with fresh water and a place to snuggle. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their carrying case or in a separate room away from the hubbub.

Source: www.aspca.org

Skip the Sweets By now you know not to feed your pets chocolate and anything sweetened with xylitol, but do you know the lengths to which an enterprising pet will go to chomp on something yummy? Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.

Careful with Cocktails If your celebration includes adult holiday beverages, be sure to place your

EVENT-DRIVEN TV BVU OptiNet and Cable Plus, Inc. Channel 3 Scott County Cable Channel 84

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(276) 679-1260 | (276) 821-6154 heritagetv@yahoo.com | www.heritagetv.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 27

Celebrating Made Simple:

Put More Meaning into the Season

By Crystal Robertson

I

f you were asked to describe the ideal holiday season, chances are you would include the company of loved ones, good food, fun and relaxation and maybe an inch or two of snow.

It seems simple, but for many of us, this could not be further from reality.

Too often, the holidays seem to exhaust rather than uplift us. Nearly nine in ten believe that holidays should be more about family and caring for others, not giving and receiving gifts. We end up feeling trapped by the shopping, spending and expectations of others. But you don’t have to rack up credit card debt or get swept up in commercialism. Instead, consider creating holidays that instill more meaning into the season and encourage sharing, laughter, creativity and renewal.

Simplify Entertaining

Entertaining can be a major holiday stress. Even before Halloween, we are bombarded with images of extravagant decorations and elaborate holiday recipes. With these standards, a simple party can become a monstrous task. The first step in making holiday events more manageable is to decide that you are willing to give up perfection. Accept that your gathering may not look like the cover of a magazine, but it will be just as enjoyable (or more!) that way.

Host your friends and family for a potluck, instead of doing all the cooking yourself. The holiday meal is one of the most stress-inducing rituals, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Potlucks reduce the work and the expense which everyone can appreciate around the holidays.

Looking for even less formal? Have people over for coffee and dessert alone. A dessert party lets you skip the formalities and get right to the fun stuff. It’s a recipe for pure pleasure.

Host a cookie swap. Instead of going through the trouble of baking many different kinds of cookies, double or triple one recipe and share them. Six friends who each make six dozen of the same kind of cookie can meet for coffee and go home with a dozen of each kind (minus one or two, perhaps).

28 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Change Gift-Giving Traditions

For extended families or office parties, the usual custom of getting a brand new gift for each person on your list can be excessive. Try one of these fun ideas for reducing the number of material gifts while keeping the fun spirit of a gift swap.

Have a White Elephant Party. Each person brings one wrapped second-hand item in good condition to the party and all the gifts are arranged on a table. Everyone draws numbers and the first person picks a gift from the table and unwraps it. The second person can either choose another gift, or take the first person’s gift (in which case the first person chooses again). Continue opening and “stealing” each other’s presents until all are opened.

Draw names from a hat and play Secret Santa for large gatherings. Each person is assigned the name of one other person to buy for. Everyone still has the fun of giving and receiving, but not the expense of every person giving to each other person.

As a group, sponsor a family (or individuals) to purchase and deliver holiday meals and/or gifts instead of getting gifts for each other. This is a heartwarming community service project to show those among us who are struggling that our community cares.

Let Peace Be With You

Keeping your body, mind and spirit relaxed goes a long way during the holidays. Investment experts advise us to pay ourselves first when each paycheck comes in. What if we followed the same advice in caring for our well-being? Try aromatherapy (the scent of peppermint, vanilla and pine will energize your spirit) and set aside the time to exercise or to take a yoga class to stay refreshed. Your heightened and enlightened mood will be infectious and carry over to others.

Remember to enjoy the reason for the season and enjoy your family. Don’t let the idea of how things should be overwhelm you. Always do what you can and let the rest just happen. Be happy... and happy holidays!

{

Crystal Robertson works in community development at the Tennessee Department of Health. She received her Bachelor’s degree from ETSU in Family and Consumer Sciences. After six years of working with families and youth as an Extension Agent, she began a new path in Public Health. She is a Master’s candidate at ETSU College of Public Health and an aspiring “disease detective.” When Ms. Robertson is not studying, she spends time making jewelry, hiking, and trying to visit every National Park in the U.S. You can reach her at crystalr501@gmail.com.

Everyone’s Talking About

Grandma’s home remedies for the winter months Eat, you’ll feel better.

Grandma was right in telling you to eat your chicken soup. Slurp away, especially if it’s homemade. The warm, salty fluid will help hydrate and remove mucus. It also helps if it’s packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like chicken and carrots.

Honey can soothe sore scratchy throat or cough.

Compared with some cough suppressants, honey can be as effective at reducing the frequency and severity of a cough. Just stir a few teaspoons of the sweet stuff into hot tea or lemon water.

Neti pots will clear your nose.

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Neti pots are a way to hydrate and wash out the nasal passages. It has been said that bacteria cannot live in saltwater. If you’re skeptical of the pot, a saline nasal spray accomplishes the same thing.

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Exclusive Preview Performance Introduces Barter Theatre’s 2016 Season

“Shades of Mark Twain with a touch of Stephen King, as if Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer had found themselves lost in a sinister fairground full of supernatural characters.”

Ray Bradbury’s SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES A play by Ray Bradbury SEPT.–NOV.

“The classic ghost story of Christmas.”

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

B

arter Theatre unveils the 2016 production schedule with a behindthe-scenes preview of what the next season has in store. Producing Artistic Director Richard Rose announces an exciting season filled with comedy, drama and many world-famous shows patrons will recognize from their silver-screen adaptations.

With the announcement of the 2016 season, PassBooks for the 2016 season are on sale now. Season PassBooks offer savings up to 52% off single ticket prices, and are available in four varied packages, allowing anyone the opportunity to see several shows at Barter for great price.

Season PassBooks range in price from $99 to $249 and are only available for a limited time. For more information about purchasing your Season PassBook, visit bartertheatre.com or contact the box office, 276-628-3991.

Barter Theatre’s 2016 season will begin in February and feature the following shows throughout the year:

Shows on The Barter Theatre Stage “A rollicking fantasy set in the American South, you simply MUST SEE this show!”

BIG FISH

Book by John August Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa Based on the novel by Daniel Wallace and the Columbia motion picture written by John August MAR.–APR. “A hilarious musical WHODUNIT!”

MURDER FOR TWO APR.–MAY

“ABBA-lutely Fabulous! The ultimate feel-good show”

MAMMA MIA!

Music and Lyrics by Benny Anderson and Björn Ulvaeus And some songs with Stig Anderson Book by Catherine Johnson MAY– AUG. “The show soars deliriously high and gloriously far.”

PETER AND THE STAR CATCHER

A play by Rick Elice Based on the novel by David Barry and Ridley Pearson Music by Wayne Barker JUN.–AUG. “This electrifying concert musical resurrects the QUEEN OF ROCK ‘N’ ROLL”

A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN AUG.–SEPT.

“The #1 longest running American Musical in Broadway History.”

CHICAGO

Book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse Music by John Kander; Lyrics by Fred Ebb Based on the play by Maurine Dallas Watkins Script adaptation by David Thompson SEPT.–NOV. 30 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

NOV.–DEC.

Shows at Barter Stage II

“One of the funniest plays EVER…laugh out loud funny”

LYING IN STATE

A riotous comedy by David C. Hyer FEB.–MAR. “Achieves vibrant immediacy…As relevant as if it were written today!”

George Orwell’s 1984

Adapted for the stage by Michael Gene Sullivan MAR.–APR. “A dazzler of great complexity and balletic elegance…

Leaves you wanting more.”

BARRYMORE

A play by William Luce MAY–AUG. “Riveting, powerful, outstanding…intelligently examines the meaning of faith and the power of love.”

AGNES OF GOD

By John Pielmeier JUL.–AUG.

“Five Southern women who, through hilarious adventures, prove that friendships last forever.”

THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB

By Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, Jamie Wooten JUN.–AUG. “I love that I can’t always tell what is real, because the real world is almost as odd as fantasy.”

FRIENDLY’S FIRE

(or Guy Friendly meets the Saint of Thieves)

By John Patrick Bray SEPT.–OCT. “As history often proves, truth is much more exciting than fiction.”

WINTER WHEAT: A NEW MUSICAL Book and lyrics by Catherine Bush Music and vocal arrangements by Ben Mackel SEPT.–NOV.

A MURDER MYSTERY THRILLER ANNOUNCEMENT COMING SOON! OCT.–NOV.

“A HILARIOUS comedy about FAMILY, FAITH & FOOD.”

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS

by Joe DiPietro NOV.–DEC.

Stay Healthy During the Holiday Season!

Beyond getting the flu vaccine, there’s a lot you can do to help your body weather the season. These are simple tips to staying healthy—and merry—as you shop, travel and celebrate.

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Wipe away germs

Before you settle in for the flight (or train or bus ride), run disinfecting wipes over the armrests, the tray table and latch, the air vent, and your seatbelt buckle and let air-dry.

Stay hydrated

Staying well-hydrated keeps those mucous membranes moist so they can better keep bugs out of our systems. If flying, down 8 ounces of water for every hour you’re in the air.

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Watch your hands

Pack an alcohol-based hand sanitizer in your purse, and use it regularly. The germs on your hands are the single biggest threat to your health. That’s because cold viruses tend to spread more from hand-to-mouth contact than through airborne droplets, making mall doors, escalator rails, elevator buttons and ATM touch screens virus central.

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Stop for a massage

Try a chair at the massage kiosk or salon. A single Swedish massage session lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol and boosts several types of white blood cells, which protect the body against germs.

Snack wisely

A piece of fruit, low-fat string cheese, an ounce of nuts, a whole-wheat pita stuffed with turkey, low-fat Greek yogurt or a granola bar are best choices for eating wisely. (Look for brands with about 150 calories, no more than 10 grams of sugar and at least 3 grams of fiber).

Stay in, rest up

If you run yourself ragged and don’t get a good night’s sleep, you risk getting ill just because you’ve worn down your body’s defenses. People who sleep at least eight hours nightly are about three times less likely to catch a cold than those who snooze for less than seven.

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month We have made great strides in the past couple of decades in sending the message that driving drunk is dangerous and presents a serious public health risk to all on the road. However, there can be a misconception that driving under the influence of marijuana or a prescription medication is somehow safer than driving while impaired by alcohol. The bottom line is impaired is impaired. voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 31

Voice Magazine recognizes the

Reader of the Month

World Record Holder to Speak at YWCA Celebrating Women Event

C

Alice Peterson

Johnson City, TN I feel empowered when:

I finish a productive day of work My ideal meal is:

ertified aquanaut, Jessica Fain will speak at the YWCA 17th Annual Celebrating Women event and silent auction on Saturday, Dec. 5 at 10:30 am. The brunch event will be the Bristol Train Station.

The speaker this year is Jessica Fain, manned underwater laboratory specialist and scuba and open water diver. In the fall of 2014, Jessica spent 73 days underwater, breaking a world record for a Classroom Under the Sea. She is an ETSU graduate, and currently works as an adjunct instructor of biology at Roane State.

“Since 1998, extraordinary women from the community have come together to celebrate one another at the YWCA Celebrating Women silent auction and brunch event. The event will feature scrumptious food, a variety of themed baskets, fine jewelry, and gift certificates and much more for bid in the silent auction. All proceeds from the event benefit YWCA Bristol Youth Development Programs,” said Diane Smith, Junior Board President.

“Celebrating Women is always an uplifting and fun holiday event that’s held at the perfect time of year; those who attend can buy unique gifts for their loved ones while supporting the area’s youth,” said Tammy Henkel, YWCA Director of Mission Advancement. “This is also a volunteer-driven event hosted by our YWCA Junior Board of Directors, a group of dedicated women who are passionate about giving back to the young women in our community.”

Admission for the event is $20 per person at the door, however, can be pre-paid at YWCA Bristol for an early-bird rate of $15 through Dec. 4. Please make your reservations by calling YWCA Bristol at 423.968.9444.

Sushi

If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be:

New Zealand

The top item on my bucket list is:

Skydiving

3 words that best describe my style:

Casual, Sporty, Simple

32 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

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Reducing Stress During the Holidays

W

e’re supposed to look forward to the holidays and hope that they will be a time of happiness, friendliness, fellowship and harmony. Yet often our anticipation and excitement turns into feelings of depression, commonly called holiday blues. Symptoms can include headaches, insomnia, uneasiness, anxiety, sadness, intestinal problems and unnecessary conflict with family and friends.

Part of what happens in the holiday season, in terms of mood changes and anxiety, may occur because of the stressfulness of holiday events. Overdrinking, overeating and fatigue may also cause it. The demands of the season are many: shopping, cooking, travel, more shopping, houseguests, family reunions, office parties and even a little more shopping. The current recession of the economy may increase tension in many of us who are already stressed or depressed.

In order to combat the holiday blues, here are some tips for reducing stress during the holiday season:

6. No one can be depressed when they are doing community service. Volunteer to serve holiday dinner at a homeless shelter or work with any number of groups that help underprivileged or hospitalized children.

7. Plan unstructured, low-cost fun holiday activities. Drive around and look at people’s Christmas decorations, take a trip to the countryside, etc. The opportunities are endless.

8. If you drink, do not let the holidays become a reason for over-indulging and hangovers. This will exacerbate your depression and anxiety. Contrary to popular opinion, alcohol is a depressant.

9. Give yourself a break; create time for you, both physically and mentally. Aerobic exercise, yoga, massage, spiritual practices, taking long fast walks or any activity that calms you down can give you a better perspective on what is important in your life.

Most of all, if you find yourself feeling blue just remember: The choice is always yours. The sky is partly sunny and the glass is half full. Revel in our bounty, our health and our courage to face each day with hope and determination.

1. Be reasonable with your schedule. Do not overbook yourself into a state of exhaustion.

2. Decide upon your priorities and stick to them. Organize your time.

3. Remember, no matter what our plans, the holidays do not automatically take away feelings of aloneness, Source: psychologytoday.com sadness, frustration, anger and fear.

4. Be careful about resentments related to holidays past.

Declare an amnesty with whichever family member or friend you are feeling past resentments. Do not think it is helpful or intimate to give your relatives your laundry list of grievances. Don’t let it happen to you, either.

5. Don’t expect the holidays to be just as they were when you were a child.

They never are. You are not the 505 N. Roan Street | Johnson City, TN same as when you were a child, and (Next to the Johnson City Public Library) 423-975-2000 | www.agapenrc.com no one else in the family is either.

Agape Nursing & Rehabilitation Center “Serving with Compassion” Services

• Skilled Nursing Care • On-Call Physician Services • Licensed Nursing Staff • Social Services Staff • Physical, Speech and Occupational Therapy • Restorative Program • Pharmacy Services • On-Call Mental Health • Registered Dietician Services • Respite Services

Amenities and Activities

• 84 Semi-Private Rooms • Beauty and Barber Shop • Laundry Services • Group Outings • Daily opportunities to encourage social, physical and mental enrichment

Enriching the lives of our residents in a caring, compassionate atmosphere. voicemagazineforwomen.com | October 2015 | 33

Personal Skin Care

BY STUART LEICHT, MD, FACP, FAAD

BOARD CERTIFIED IN DERMATOLOGY AND INTERNAL MEDICINE An external skin issue can be a signal of an internal problem. Dr. Leicht has additional training and experience for the best treatment of your skin issues.

For every appointment with Dr. Leicht, he will personally discuss your diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Leicht's additional credentials include: Chief of Dermatology and Professor of Internal Medicine at ETSU Quillen College of Medicine

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If you are experiencing these skin conditions please call:

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Two Convenient Locations in Johnson City and Kingsport 329 N. State of Franklin Rd. | Johnson City, TN | 423.979.4100 Four Sheridan Square, Suite 200 | Kingsport, TN | 423.246.7931 For all of our services please visit etsuphysicians.com | Twitter @ETSUPhysicians

5 STAR ANNUAL SURVEY “Thank you for the wonderful care of our father while he was in your facility. The staff was always warm and friendly.

We also appreciate all their hard work. Mitch in Therapy did a great job!

Dad started walking again with his walker.”

Did you know...

Christmas disease—also called hemophilia B, or factor IX hemophilia —is a rare genetic disorder in which your blood does not clot properly. If you have Christmas disease, your body produces little or no blood-clotting factor IX, which leads to prolonged or spontaneous bleeding. The less factor IX your body produces, the worse your symptoms are. Without treatment, Christmas disease can be fatal.

A person is born with Christmas disease, although it may not be diagnosed until later in life. In about two-thirds of cases, Christmas disease is inherited. The other one-third of cases is caused by spontaneous gene mutations that occur for unknown reasons during fetal development. The disease is almost always exclusive to males.

The disease has nothing to do with the Christmas holiday; it was named for Stephen Christmas, who was the first person diagnosed with the condition in 1952. Christmas disease is the second most common form of hemophilia. Approximately one in 3,300 people in the United States have Christmas disease, according to the National Hemophilia Foundation.

Source: www.healthline.com

— Forever grateful, The thankful family of Walter S.

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www.greystonehc.com 34 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

The holidays can mean cooking for people whose diets you may not be familiar.

Whether because of allergies or by choice, there are ways to make sure everyone remains healthy during the holidays.

The best thing to do is to ask ahead and let hosts know of special diets. As a cook, be sure to avoid cross-contamination. And if you aren’t sure whether something works for someone’s diet, keep the label, so they can check it themselves.

Reasons to Give the Gift of Chocolate! ark chocolate has recently been discovered to have D a number of healthy benefits. While eating dark chocolate can lead to the health benefits described below, remember that chocolate is also high in fat.

Eating chocolate leads to higher levels of desire, arousal and sexual satisfaction, according to a study from an Italian university reported in The Journal of Sexual Medicine. Female participants who consumed at least one cube of chocolate a day experienced more active libidos and better overall sexual function than those who didn’t indulge.

Dark Chocolate is Good for Your Heart Studies show that eating a small amount of dark chocolate two or three times each week can help lower your blood pressure. Dark chocolate improves blood flow and may help prevent the formation of blood clots. Eating dark chocolate may also prevent arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Dark Chocolate is Good for Your Brain Dark chocolate increases blood flow to the brain as well as to the heart, so it can help improve cognitive function. Dark chocolate also helps reduce your risk of stroke.

Dark chocolate also contains several chemical compounds that have a positive effect on your mood and cognitive health. Chocolate contains phenylethylamine (PEA), the same chemical your brain creates when you feel like you’re falling in love. PEA encourages your brain to release endorphins, so eating dark chocolate will make you feel happier.

Dark chocolate also contains caffeine, a mild stimulant. However, dark chocolate contains much less caffeine than coffee. A 1.5 ounce bar of dark chocolate contains 27 mg of caffeine, compared to the 200 mg found in an eight ounce cup of coffee.

aging process and may be a cause of cancer, so eating antioxidant rich foods like dark chocolate can protect you from many types of cancer and slow the signs of aging.

Dark Chocolate Contains Theobromine Dark chocolate contains theobromine, which has been shown to harden tooth enamel. That means that dark chocolate, unlike most other sweets, lowers your risk of getting cavities if you practice proper dental hygiene.

Theobromine is also a mild stimulant, though not as strong as caffeine. It can, however, help to suppress coughs.

Dark Chocolate is High in Vitamins and Minerals Dark chocolate contains a number of vitamins and minerals that can support your health. Dark chocolate contains some of the following vitamins and minerals in high concentrations: • Potassium • Copper • Magnesium • Iron The copper and potassium in dark chocolate help prevent against stroke and cardiovascular ailments. The iron in chocolate protects against iron deficiency anemia, and the magnesium in chocolate helps prevent type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Dark Chocolate Helps Control Blood Sugar Dark chocolate helps keep your blood vessels healthy and your circulation unimpaired to protect against type 2 diabetes.

The flavonoids in dark chocolate also help reduce insulin resistance by helping your cells to function normally and regain the ability to use your body’s insulin efficiently.

Dark chocolate also has a low glycemic index, meaning it won’t cause huge spikes in blood sugar levels.

Dark Chocolate is Full of Antioxidants Dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants. Antioxidants help free your body of free radicals, which cause oxidative damage to cells. Free radicals are implicated in the voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 35

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Voicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

I

think the reason Christmas Vacation is a classic is because we all have a Cousin Eddie or Aunt Edna in the family and we’ve all struggled to have the “perfect” holiday. I know I see ghosts of my Christmases Past every time it comes on the TV. I’ve warestled with knots of mini lights, watched the tree toppled by the family cat, and had my share of Clark Griswold moments. But one Christmas stands out, the last one with my grandmother, who we called “Mama Edd.” In her 80s, she was still spry and spunky, insisting on living alone and even driving. She chose to dine on pimento cheese, honey buns, diet Dr. Pepper and a good dose of “brown likker” for a nightly nightcap. So when, after a series of falls and a broken hip, she had to go to rehab, she wasn’t a bit happy. No special diet, no junk food and certainly no bourbon. Happy camper, she was not.

During my visits, she grew insistent that we were to take her to see Bristol’s Speedway in Lights, something most of her new neighbors had done. They had described the million light spectacle in great detail, and she obviously hung on every word, turning greener and greener with envy with each new telling.

Mama Edd was never one to be left out. I was ordered to make it so.

Military Moment

So once she was strong enough to make the trip, we set a date. As I rolled a wheelchair into her room, I noticed her dressed and ready to go—coat, hat, and all. Instead of excitement, I saw that all-too-familiar scowl on her face. Something was wrong. And, as history proved, she wasn’t one to hold back.

“Hey, Mama Edd!” I chimed, hoping to cut the icy air. “You ready to go on your ride?”

“Ride #%^*!” she bellowed, all 92 pounds of her. “Where the #%^# have you been?” Oh, she was a saucy sort, especially when riled. If there would had been a naval fleet nearby, I’m certain she would have had everyone on board, from the ensign to the captain, a broad shade of crimson in an instant.

Thinking maybe I’d mixed up the dates, I apologized.

“No, it’s the right day,” Mama Edd growled. “But you’re late!”

Late? It was barely dusk. I tried explaining that I had planned it that way. She would hear nothing of my attempts at explanation, though.

“I ain’t concerned about why you’re late,” she sneered. “But I’ll tell ya right now, there ain’t no way we can get there now, before it gets dark!”

{

Merry Christmas, Clark.

Ken Heath is a Marion, VA hometown boy who expresses his passions in his writings and through music. After his ‘real job’, Ken is owner of the legendary Cliffside Roadhouse, doggie dad to two yellow labs with his wonderful wife, and a professional mobile DJ with Bow Tie Pro Music and Sound. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at #kenheath.

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Wishing our Military a Peaceful and Happy Holiday!

Donate Care Package Items!

Purchase items from their care package suggestion list or donate money to help pay the shipping costs.

Visit www.military-missions.org for guidelines. Items can be dropped off or mailed to:

Millpond Shopping Center 3650 Boston Rd., Suite 146 Lexington, KY 40515 voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2015 | 37

The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9.

GOT… BUGS?

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38 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

We are here to greet you with a wonderful free “shopping bag” full of goodies from your local merchants.

You not only receive discounts and coupons to businesses and services, you will receive free tickets to most of our area museums, theatres, etc.

ACROSS

1. Beer buy 5. Computer picture 9. Junk E-mail 13. Those who appeal a court decision 16. Goya’s “Duchess of ___” 17. Treacherous person (4 wds) 19. “Sesame Street” watcher 20. Chain letters?

21. Describes in vivid detail 22. Bad look 24. Brightly colored venomous snakes of SE Asia 27. Clavell’s “___-Pan” 28. Artist’s stand 30. Clinker 31. Annoyance 32. Kitten’s cry 34. Finger jewelry with a signet (2 wds) 37. Total destruction 39. Short postscript to a literary work 41. Big Apple attraction, with “the” 42. “Schindler’s ___” 43. “To ___ is human ...”

45. Dutch pottery city 49. Bank offering, for short 50. Declaration of intent to inflict harm 53. French Sudan, today 54. Medicinal shrub 56. “Flying Down to ___” 58. Big wine holder 59. Simultaneously (4 wds) 63. Quaker’s “you” 64. Affording gain 65. Reddish-brown gem 66. Poet Angelou 67. 1992 Robin Williams movie

DOWN

1. Royal home 2. Temporary interruption in breathing 3. Floods 4. “A rat!”

5. Go furtively 6. Don’t believe it 7. Queen, maybe 8. ___ power 9. Delhi dress 10. Banana variety 11. Fast 12. Coming together to form a group 14. Certain digital watch face, for short 15. Aug. follower 18. Neon, e.g.

23. Change from solid to liquid again 25. Spartan 26. “I had no ___!”

29. Rotating to the left, shortened 31. For the time being 33. Card 35. Store convenience, for short 36. Emulated Pinocchio 37. Fiasco 38. Litigant 39. Evokes 40. Carnivorous freshwater fish 44. Make less dense 46. Ritual hand washing during Mass 47. Without showing any emotion or interest 48. Voluntary contributions to the church 50. 20-20, e.g.

51. Door fastener 52. Leg bone 55. Abandon 57. Crumb 60. Branch 61. Bygone bird 62. “Dig in!”

40 | December 2015 | voicemagazineforwomen.com